Drought Conditions and Extreme Heat Increase the Importance of Fire Safety this Fourth of July Holiday Weekend

Helping our Customers and Communities Stay Safe this Independence Day

OAKLAND, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--It’s critical to put safety first this Fourth of July with the triple digit heat combined with extremely dry conditions from an extended drought and climate change.

Celebrations that involve fireworks, barbeques and swimming can increase the risk of fires, electric hazards, heat-related illnesses, and other perils. Echoing recommendations from first responders, PG&E asks customers to follow local rules and regulations regarding fireworks.

Here are additional ways to stay safe this summer:

Electric Safety

• The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public fireworks show put on by professionals.
• First and foremost, know what the local regulations allow. Be aware of surroundings — stay clear of power lines, structures, dry grass, or flammable materials when using legally purchased fireworks in areas approved by local regulations.
• If a firework strikes electric equipment or causes a power line to come down, stay away, keep others away and immediately call 9-1-1 and PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.
• Always assume downed electric lines are energized and extremely dangerous. Never attempt to retrieve anything that is tangled in or near a power line.

Summer Safety

• Make sure everyone has proper skills to swim. Keep an eye on young children and check flotation devices for leaks.
• Every child under 13 must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket when on a moving vessel that is 26 feet or less in length.
• Don't dive or jump into unfamiliar water. Shallow water or submerged trees or rocks could cause serious injury.
• Don't swim or play near a dam or powerhouse; these areas can have strong underwater currents, sudden water discharges, slippery surfaces and submerged hazards.
• Never use generators, propane heaters, barbeques or charcoal indoors due to carbon monoxide risks.

Heat Safety

• Limit exposure to direct sunlight. Reapply sunscreen often.
• Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol or caffeine when temperatures are high.
• During hot weather, watch for signs of heat stroke — hot, red skin; changes in consciousness; rapid, weak pulse; or rapid, shallow breathing. If you suspect someone is suffering from heat stroke, call 9-1-1 and move the person to a cooler place. Use cold towels to help lower their body temperature until help arrives.

PG&E encourages customers to confirm their phone number, email, language preference, and mailing address are current in their online account by visiting pge.com/mywildfirealerts.

About PG&E

Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG), is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than 16 million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com and pge.com/news.